Jeremiyah Love has etched his name into Notre Dame history by becoming the first running back in program history to win the prestigious Doak Walker Award. The junior from St. Louis delivered a dominant 2025 season that showcased elite rushing prowess and unmatched consistency.
🔥 Quick Facts
- 1,372 rushing yards on 199 carries in 2025 season
- 18 rushing touchdowns ranking third nationally plus 3 receiving touchdowns
- 6.89 yards per carry leading all Doak Walker finalists
- Also named Walter Camp First-Team All-American and finalist for Heisman Trophy
Historic Award for Irish Program
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Love’s achievement represents a milestone for Notre Dame football that took 35 years to reach. The Doak Walker Award, established in 1990, has recognized the nation’s elite running backs annually, yet no Fighting Irish running back had captured the honor until Friday night. Reggie Brooks, a tailback for Notre Dame, previously reached the finals in 1992 but did not win the award.
This season, Love dominated the running back landscape with 199 carries translating to 1,372 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns. His receiving production added another dimension to his game with 27 receptions for 280 yards and 3 touchdowns.
College Football’s Most Efficient Runner
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Among the award finalists, Love’s 6.89 yards-per-carry average ranked number one, demonstrating his explosive ability in the backfield. The junior running back also led Doak Walker finalists with 137.7 yards from scrimmage per game, showcasing consistency week after week.
Love’s 1,372 rushing yards positioned him fourth nationally for the season. His 18 rushing touchdowns ranked third in the nation, highlighting his ability to finish drives near the end zone.
2025 Season Performance Breakdown
| Stat Category | 2025 Season | National Ranking |
| Rushing Yards | 1,372 | 4th |
| Rushing Touchdowns | 18 | 3rd |
| Yards Per Carry | 6.89 | 1st (Finalists) |
| Receiving Yards | 280 | Supporting Role |
| Total Touchdowns | 21 | Elite Level |
| Carries | 199 | Workload Leader |
Recognition Beyond the Doak Walker
Love’s stellar season earned him recognition across college football’s award circuit. He was named a Walter Camp First-Team All-American and selected as a finalist for the Heisman Trophy, competing against other elite college football players. Love was also recognized with the Disney Spirit Award for his contributions both on and off the field.
The junior running back’s performance helped drive Notre Dame to a 10-2 record during the 2025 season. His consistent production in the backfield provided the foundation for the Fighting Irish offense throughout the campaign.
What Do Love’s Historic Numbers Mean for Notre Dame’s Future?
Love’s Doak Walker Award achievement signals a new era for Notre Dame’s offensive production. The junior still has remaining eligibility, creating potential for another season of elite performance at South Bend. His efficiency metrics and touchdown production suggest he could challenge for additional national accolades if he returns.
The first-ever Doak Walker winner for the program breaks a 35-year championship drought for Notre Dame running backs at the award level. Love’s dominance raises the question of whether future Irish running backs can build on this foundation and establish Notre Dame as a pipeline for national player-of-the-year candidates at the position.
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